In-Wall Occupancy Sensor with Mode Selection Features

ABSTRACT

An electrical wiring device operates in more than one operating mode and includes a microcontroller, an occupancy detection sensor communicably coupled to the microcontroller, and at least one accessible user interface communicably coupled to the microcontroller. The accessible user interface is accessible to an end-user without having to disassemble any portion of the device. The accessible user interface is manipulated to select one of several operating modes. In some embodiments, the device includes a night light that also can be an accessible user interface. In some of those embodiments, one of the operating modes includes a night light operating mode, wherein the device&#39;s operation is dependent upon the status of the night light. In some embodiments, an indicator is included to inform the end-user when to stop manipulating the accessible user interface.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to electrical wiring devices andmore particularly, to in-wall occupancy sensor devices operable invarious operating modes.

BACKGROUND

Conventional in-wall occupancy sensor devices include an occupancysensor for detecting motion within a monitored area. Conventionalin-wall occupancy sensor devices are electrically coupled to at leastone load, such as a load having a light source. Conventional in-walloccupancy sensor devices typically have two operating modes. One of theoperating modes is an occupancy operating mode and the other operatingmode is a vacancy operating mode. Conventional in-wall occupancy sensordevices are typically limited to these two operating modes and do notoffer additional operating modes for the device to operate.

Operation of the conventional in-wall occupancy sensor device within theoccupancy operating mode allows for the occupancy sensor toautomatically turn on the load upon sensing motion within the monitoredarea. Conversely, the occupancy sensor automatically turns off the loadonce motion is no longer detected within the monitored area. Accordingto one example, a conventional in-wall occupancy sensor device isinstalled within a bedroom and detects motion within the bedroom. Theconventional in-wall occupancy sensor device is electrically coupled toa bedroom light. Once an end-user enters the bedroom, the occupancysensor detects motion within the bedroom and automatically turns on thebedroom light. Once the end-user leaves the bedroom and the occupancysensor no longer detects motion within the bedroom, the occupancy sensorautomatically turns off the bedroom light.

Operation of the conventional in-wall occupancy sensor device within thevacancy operating mode allows for the occupancy sensor to automaticallyturn off the load once motion is no longer detected within the monitoredarea. However, when operating in the vacancy mode, the load turns ononly if the end-user manually turns on the load using a manualcontroller located on the device. According to one example, aconventional in-wall occupancy sensor device is installed within abedroom and detects motion within the bedroom. The conventional in-walloccupancy sensor device is electrically coupled to a bedroom light. Oncethe end-user enters the bedroom, the end-user manually turns on thebedroom light using the manual controller on the device. The occupancysensor is not able to automatically turn on the bedroom light, even ifthe occupancy sensor detects motion within the bedroom. However, oncethe end-user leaves the bedroom and the occupancy sensor no longerdetects motion within the bedroom, the occupancy sensor automaticallyturns off the bedroom light.

The ability for the end-user to select the operating mode of theconventional in-wall occupancy sensor device has typically beenimplemented with the use of mode selection switches that are not readilyaccessible without some degree of disassembly of the device. Forexample, the conventional in-wall occupancy sensor device includes theoccupancy sensor and the manual controller for manually turning on,turning off, and/or dimming the load. In this example, the modeselection switches are accessible to the end-user once the manualcontroller is removed from the device. In one example, the modeselection switches can be rotatable knobs and/or dipswitches. Once theoperating mode is selected, the end-user replaces the manual controlleronto the device. The hidden mode selection switches are not visible oraccessible for aesthetic reasons and/or functional reasons, for example,not wanting to accidentally switch the device's operating mode.

In certain situations, end-users change the device's operating mode onceor twice daily. For example, some end-users want the device to operatein the vacancy mode during daylight hours; thereby, preventing the load,or lights, from automatically turning on once occupancy in the monitoredarea is detected, but allowing the lights to automatically turn off onceoccupancy in the monitored area is no longer detected. Additionally,some end-users want the device to operate in the occupancy mode duringevening hours; thereby, allowing the lights to automatically turn ononce occupancy in the monitored area is detected and turn off onceoccupancy in the monitored area is no longer detected. Furthermore, someend-users want the device to operate in vacancy mode during sleepinghours so that the lights do not automatically turn on when the occupancysensor detects a sleeping person's movement. Each time the end-userdesires to change the operating mode of the conventional in-walloccupancy sensor device, the end-user is inconvenienced because theend-user has to disassemble at least a portion of the device to changethe operating mode. Also, each time a portion of the device isdisassembled, there is a risk that a portion of the device, such as themanual controller, is lost and/or broken.

SUMMARY

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an electricalwiring device. The electrical wiring device includes a microcontroller,an occupancy detection sensor, and at least one accessible userinterface. The microcontroller is communicably coupled to at least oneload. The occupancy detection sensor is communicably coupled to themicrocontroller and sends one or more signals to the microcontroller toallow the microcontroller to determine occupancy within a monitoredarea. The accessible user interface is communicably coupled to themicrocontroller. The accessible user interface is accessible to anend-user without any portion of the device being disassembled. Thedevice is operable in a plurality of operating modes and is selected bymanipulating the accessible user interface.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes anelectrical wiring device. The electrical wiring device includes amicrocontroller, an occupancy detection sensor, a night light, and atleast one manual controller. The microcontroller is communicably coupledto at least one load. The occupancy detection sensor is communicablycoupled to the microcontroller and sends one or more signals to themicrocontroller to allow the microcontroller to determine occupancywithin a monitored area. The night light is communicably coupled to themicrocontroller and includes one or more light sources for emittinglight and a night light lens. The night light lens is disposed over thelight sources and allows the light to be emitted therethrough. Themanual controller is communicably coupled to the microcontroller. Thedevice is operable in one or more operating modes, wherein one of theoperating modes is a night light operating mode. Operation of the devicein the night light operating mode is dependent upon the status of thenight light.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes alighting control system. The lighting control system includes at leastone load and a lighting control device electrically coupled to the load.The load is positioned within an area. The lighting control deviceincludes a microcontroller, an occupancy detection sensor, and at leastone accessible user interface. The microcontroller is communicablycoupled to at least one load. The occupancy detection sensor iscommunicably coupled to the microcontroller and sends one or moresignals to the microcontroller to allow the microcontroller to determineoccupancy within a monitored area. The accessible user interface iscommunicably coupled to the microcontroller. The accessible userinterface is accessible to an end-user without any portion of the devicebeing disassembled. The device is operable in a plurality of operatingmodes and is selected by manipulating the accessible user interface.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a methodfor selecting an operating mode for an electrical wiring device. Themethod includes providing the electrical wiring device having anaccessible user interface and pressing in and holding in the accessibleuser interface for a predetermined period of time to effectuate a changein operating mode. The device is capable of operating in a plurality ofoperating modes. The device includes a microcontroller, an occupancydetection sensor, and at least one accessible user interface. Themicrocontroller is communicably coupled to at least one load. Theoccupancy detection sensor is communicably coupled to themicrocontroller and sends one or more signals to the microcontroller toallow the microcontroller to determine occupancy within a monitoredarea. The accessible user interface is communicably coupled to themicrocontroller. The accessible user interface is accessible to anend-user without any portion of the device being disassembled.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a methodfor selecting an operating mode for an electrical wiring device. Themethod includes providing the electrical wiring device having anaccessible user interface and pressing in and releasing the accessibleuser interface one or more times in a predetermined combination ofpresses to effectuate a change in operating mode. The device is capableof operating in a plurality of operating modes. The device includes amicrocontroller, an occupancy detection sensor, and at least oneaccessible user interface. The microcontroller is communicably coupledto at least one load. The occupancy detection sensor is communicablycoupled to the microcontroller and sends one or more signals to themicrocontroller to allow the microcontroller to determine occupancywithin a monitored area. The accessible user interface is communicablycoupled to the microcontroller. The accessible user interface isaccessible to an end-user without any portion of the device beingdisassembled.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and aspects of the invention are bestunderstood with reference to the following description of certainexemplary embodiments, when read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the in-wall occupancy sensor switchof FIG. 1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the in-wall occupancy sensor switch ofFIGS. 1 and 2 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a setting controller of the in-walloccupancy sensor switch of FIGS. 1-3 in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of operating mode selections for thein-wall occupancy sensor switch of FIGS. 1-4 in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an in-wall occupancy sensorcontrol system using the in-wall occupancy sensor switch of FIGS. 1-5 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switchin accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switchin accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments of the invention andare therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as theinvention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed to in-wall occupancy sensor devicesoperable in various operating modes. Although the description ofexemplary embodiments is provided below in conjunction with an in-walloccupancy sensor switch, alternate embodiments of the invention areapplicable to other types of electrical wiring devices having anoccupancy sensor including, but not limited to, receptacles, switches,and any other electrical wiring device known to people having ordinaryskill in the art. The invention is better understood by reading thefollowing description of non-limiting, exemplary embodiments withreference to the attached drawings, wherein like parts of each of thefigures are identified by like reference characters, and which arebriefly described as follows.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the in-wall occupancy sensor switch100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 issubstantially rectangularly shaped and includes an upper coupling band190, a lower coupling band 192, a body 105, and a face plate 107.However, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is formed in differentgeometric and non-geometric shapes according to other exemplaryembodiments. The face plate 107 includes a length 205 and a width 207.

The upper coupling band 190 and the lower coupling band 192 are formedseparately from one another and are both partially disposed between thebody 105 and the face plate 107. However, in some exemplary embodiments,the upper coupling band 190 and the lower coupling band 192 are formedas a single component. The upper coupling band 190 and the lowercoupling band 192 extend lengthwise of the face plate 107 andcollectively extend beyond the length 205 of the face plate 107 in bothdirections. The upper coupling band 190 includes an upper coupling bandaperture 191 and the lower coupling band 192 includes a lower couplingband aperture 193. These apertures 191 and 193 are used to couple thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 to a wall box (not shown) using ascrew (not shown) or other fastening device known to people havingordinary skill in the art. The upper coupling band 190 and the lowercoupling band 192 are fabricated using a metal, such as steel, but arecapable of being fabricated using other materials known to people havingordinary skill in the art.

The body 105 is coupled to at least one of the upper coupling band 190,the lower coupling band 192, and the face plate 107. The body 105 issubstantially rectangularly shaped but is capable of being formed inother geometric or non-geometric shapes. In certain exemplaryembodiments, the body 105 includes electrical components (not shown),including electrical contacts, for electrically coupling the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100 to building wires (not shown) and to loadwires (not shown) that are electrically coupled to an associated load(not shown). The body 105 is dimensioned to fit within the wall box. Incertain exemplary embodiments, the body 105 is fabricated using plasticmaterial. However, the body 105 is capable of being fabricated usingother materials known to people having ordinary skill in the artaccording to other exemplary embodiments.

The face plate 107 is coupled to at least one of the upper coupling band190, the lower coupling band 192, and the body 105 and remains visibleto an end-user once the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is installedwithin the wall box. The face plate 107 is substantially rectangularlyshaped but is capable of being formed in other geometric ornon-geometric shapes. In some exemplary embodiments, the face plate 107has a profile that is substantially similar to the profile of the body105 and is disposed over the body 105. The face plate 107 includes anoccupancy detection sensor 110, a night light 120, and a manualcontroller 195. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the night light120 is optional. According to one exemplary embodiment, the night light120 is disposed adjacent the occupancy detection sensor 110 and themanual controller 195; thereby being positioned between the occupancydetection sensor 110 and the manual controller 195. The occupancydetection sensor 110 is positioned along the top portion of the faceplate 107, while the manual controller 195 is positioned along thebottom portion of the face plate 107. Although the positioning for theoccupancy detection sensor 110, the night light 120, and the manualcontroller 195 has been provided in accordance with one of the exemplaryembodiments, other exemplary embodiments can have alternativepositioning of the occupancy detection sensor 110, the night light 120,and the manual controller 195 on the face plate 107 without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.

The occupancy detection sensor 110 is able to activate upon sensing theoccupancy of the monitored area, maintain activation when sensingcontinuing occupancy of the monitored area, and enable settings foroperating the occupancy detection sensor 110. According to someexemplary embodiments, the occupancy detection sensor 110 includes oneor more passive infrared (“PIR”) sensors (not shown). Although theoccupancy detection sensor 110 includes PIR sensors, the occupancydetection sensor 110 includes any one or a combination of differentoccupancy sensing technologies including, but not limited to, PIR,ultrasonic, microwave, and microphonic technologies in other exemplaryembodiments.

According to one of the exemplary embodiments, the occupancy detectionsensor 110, which uses the PIR sensors to detect occupancy, passivelysenses the occupancy of the monitored area, activates a signal upondetecting occupancy, continues activating the signal upon sensing thecontinuing occupancy of the monitored area, enables settings foroperating the occupancy detection sensor 110, and enables processing ofthe settings for the occupancy detection sensor 110. In certainexemplary embodiments, when the occupancy detection sensor 110 activatesthe signal based upon detecting motion, the associated load is turnedon. The occupancy detection sensor 110 utilizes a passive technology,which does not send out a signal to aid in the reception of a signal.However, in certain alternative exemplary embodiments, the occupancydetection sensor 110 utilizes an active technology, such as ultrasonictechnology, or a combination of active and passive technologies. AFresnel lens 113 is positioned on a portion of the in-wall occupancysensor switch 100 to encompass the PIR sensors that are located withinthe occupancy detection sensor 110. The use of PIR sensors fordetermining occupancy in a monitored area are known to people havingordinary skill in the art. In certain exemplary embodiments, theoccupancy detection sensor 110 transmits one or more signals to amicrocontroller so that the microcontroller is able to determineoccupancy within a desired monitored area. In these exemplaryembodiments, the occupancy detection sensor 110 automatically sends asignal to the microcontroller at predetermined time intervals, at randomtime intervals, or only when occupancy is detected. Alternatively, themicrocontroller polls the occupancy detection sensor 110 for theoccupancy detection sensor 110 to send a signal back to themicrocontroller. The microcontroller is able to poll the occupancydetection sensor 110 automatically at predetermined time intervals or atrandom time intervals.

In some exemplary embodiments, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100includes a load status/motion indicator 114. The load status/motionindicator 114 is located adjacent to the night light 120; however, theload status/motion indicator 114 can be located anywhere on the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100 so long as the load status/motion indicator114 is visible to an end-user once the in-wall occupancy sensor switch100 is installed within the wall box. The load status/motion indicator114 includes an LED or LED package which provides information to theend-user as to the load status, whether motion has been detected in themonitored area, and/or when to release certain user accessibleinterfaces, such as the night light 120 and/or the manual controller195, to effectuate a change in operating mode. According to someexemplary embodiments, the user accessible interfaces 120 and 195 arecomponents located on the face plate 107 of the switch 100 and areaccessible to the end-user without the end-user having to disassembleany portion of the switch 100. For example, in certain exemplaryembodiments, the load status/motion indicator 114 emits a visibleconstant light when a load associated with the in-wall occupancy sensorswitch 100 is on and emits no light when the load associated with thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is off. Also, in certain exemplaryembodiments, the load status/motion indicator 114 emits a momentaryflashing light when motion is detected within the monitored area andemits no light when motion is not detected within the monitored area.Moreover, in certain exemplary embodiments, the load status/motionindicator 114 emits a momentary flashing light when either the nightlight 120 and/or the manual controller 195 has been pressed in and heldin for a certain time period, which alerts the end-user to release thenight light 120 and/or the manual controller 195 to change the operatingmode of the switch 100. In alternative exemplary embodiments, othermethods, such as using two or more independent LEDs or LED packages, canbe used to show the load status, whether motion has been detected withinthe monitored area, and/or alert the end-user to release certain userinterfaces to effectuate a change in operating mode. For example, oneLED or LED package indicates the load status while the second LED or LEDpackage indicates whether motion has been detected in the monitoredarea. Additionally, the load status/motion indicator 114 can be includedwithin a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) screen and include one of text,symbols, numbers, and/or any combinations thereof.

In certain exemplary embodiments, an optically transmissive or clearmaterial (not shown) encapsulates at least a portion of each LED or LEDpackage. This encapsulating material provides environmental protectionwhile transmitting light from the LEDs. In certain exemplaryembodiments, the encapsulating material includes a conformal coating, asilicone gel, a cured/curable polymer, an adhesive, or some othermaterial known to a person of ordinary skill in the art having thebenefit of the present disclosure. In certain exemplary embodiments,phosphors are coated onto or dispersed in the encapsulating material forcreating a desired light color.

The night light 120 includes one or more LEDs (not shown), or LEDpackages. Although LEDs are described in the exemplary embodiment, otherlight sources known to people having ordinary skill in the art,including but not limited to organic light emitting diodes (“OLEDs”) andliquid crystal display (“LCD”) screens, are used in alternativeexemplary embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of theexemplary embodiment. In certain exemplary embodiments, the night light120 also optionally includes a lens 122 positioned over the LEDs or LEDpackages. The night light 120 LEDs emit substantially white light havinga color temperature between 2500 and 5000 degrees Kelvin. However, inalternative exemplary embodiments, the night light 120 emits any colorlight at various intensities of that color. The lens 122 is fabricatedusing an optically transmissive or clear material that encapsulates theLEDs or LED package. In some exemplary embodiments, the lens 122provides environmental protection while transmitting light from theLEDs. In certain exemplary embodiments, the lens 122 includes aconformal coating, a silicone gel, a cured/curable polymer, an adhesive,or some other material known to a person of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of the present disclosure. In certain exemplaryembodiments, phosphors are coated onto or dispersed in the lens 122 forcreating a desired light color that is emitted from the night light 120.

According to some exemplary embodiment, the lens 122 is a push-buttonlens that is used to turn on the night light 120, turn off the nightlight 120, and/or dim the night light 120. In certain exemplaryembodiments, the night light 120 also is used to change an operatingmode of the switch 100, which will be discussed in further detain below.The push-button lens is substantially rectangular; however, thepush-button lens can be any geometric or non-geometric shape withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment. Incertain exemplary embodiments, when the night light 120 turns on, theLEDs emit light through the lens 122. When the night light 120 turnsoff, the LEDs emit no light through the lens 122. When the night light120 is dimmed, the intensity of the light emitted from the LEDs throughthe lens 122 is varied or the number of LEDs that are on is variedaccording to end-user desires. For example, the light intensity emittedfrom the night light 120 is varied by increasing or decreasing thecurrent supplied to the LEDs. In another example, if the night lightincludes ten LEDs, the number of LEDs that emit light can beincreasingly or decreasingly varied from one LED to ten LEDs or ten LEDsto one LED to produce a dimming effect. Although two examples have beenprovided to illustrate methods for dimming the night light 120, othermethods known to people having ordinary skill in the art can be usedwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.In this exemplary embodiment, the lens 122 in pushed in and released toturn on the night light 120 and is pushed in and released again to turnoff the night light 120. Once the night light 120 is on, the lens 122 ispushed in and held in to achieve dimming the night light 120. Forexample, once the night light 120 is turned on, the night light 120emits light at its maximum intensity. The lens 122 is pushed in and heldin to decrease the light intensity emitted from the night light 120until the desired intensity is reached, at which time the end-userreleases the lens 122. If the end-user desires to increase the intensityof the light emitted from the night light 120, the lens 122 is againpushed in and held in until the desired intensity is reached. In anotherembodiment, the night light 120 operation is the same, except that oncethe night light 120 is turned on, the night light 120 emits light at apre-set intensity, which is set by the end-user and is between themaximum intensity and the minimum intensity. For example, the pre-setintensity is the intensity of the light that the night light 120 emittedimmediately before being previously turned off. Thus, according to oneexemplary embodiments, the lens 122 of the night light 120 is used tocontrol the operation of the night light 120. In an alternate exemplaryembodiment, the lens 122 is repeated tapped to increase or decrease theintensity of the light emitted through the night light 120.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch 900in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 9, the in-wall occupancy sensorswitch 900 is similar to the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 exceptthat the shape and operation of the night light 920 is different thanthe night light 120. The night light 920 optionally includes a lens 922disposed over the LEDs (not shown). The lens 922 is a rotating lens, ordial, that is used to turn on the night light 920, turn off the nightlight 920, and/or dim the night light 920. In this alternative exemplaryembodiment, the lens 922 rotates clockwise and counter-clockwise toachieve turning on the night light 920, turning off the night light 920,and dimming the night light 920. For example, when the lens 922 is inits furthest counter-clockwise direction, the night light 920 is off. Asthe lens 922 rotates clockwise, the night light 920 initially emits alow intensity light and increases the light intensity emission as thelens 922 is further rotated clockwise. The night light 920 emits themaximum light intensity once the lens 922 is rotated clockwise to itsfurthest position. In certain exemplary embodiments, the lens 922 iscapable of being pushed in and held in for a period of time toeffectuate a change in operating mode, which is discussed further below.

Yet, in still further alternative exemplary embodiments, the lens 922 isa combined rotating and push-button lens that is used to turn on thenight light 920, turn off the night light 920, dim the night light 920,and/or effectuate a change in operating mode. In this alternativeexemplary embodiment, the lens 922 in pushed in to turn on the nightlight 920 and is pushed in again to turn off the night light 920. Oncethe night light 920 is on, the lens 922 is rotated clockwise andcounter-clockwise to achieve dimming the night light 920. For example,when the lens 922 is in its furthest counter-clockwise direction, thenight light 920 emits its lowest intensity light. As the lens 922rotates clockwise, the night light 920 increases the light intensityemission until the lens 922 reaches its furthest clockwise positionwhich is the setting where the night light 920 emits its maximum lightintensity. Additionally, the lens 922 is pushed in and held in for aperiod of time to effectuate a change in operating mode, which isdiscussed further below.

Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2 and according to exemplary embodiments,the night light 120 provides sufficient lighting for end-users at nighttime to perform different tasks without having to turn on the lightingloads that are electrically coupled to the electrical wiring device. Insome exemplary embodiments where the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100is positioned at a location where the end-user can reach it withouthaving to bend, the night light 120 provides improved distanceillumination than the conventional night lights because it is located ata higher elevation than the conventional night lights. Additionally,night light 120 is integral with the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100so that it is not easily removable and subsequently misplaced. Moreover,the night light 120 also assists end-users for locating the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100 when all the lights in the monitored areaare off. Further, according to some exemplary embodiments, the nightlight 120 is operable to change operating modes of the in-wall occupancysensor switch 100, which is further described in detail below inconjunction with FIG. 5.

The manual controller 195 adjusts the desired light level of the lightfixtures, or loads, electrically coupled to the in-wall occupancy sensorswitch 100. The manual controller 195 includes an on/off button 130according to one exemplary embodiment. Although the exemplary embodimentillustrates that the manual controller 195 includes an on/off button130, more on/off buttons can be used depending upon the number of loadsthat are associated with the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.Alternatively, although the manual controller 195 includes on/off button130 in some exemplary embodiments, the manual controller 195 can be anytype of controller that controls the desired light level including, butnot limited to, a switch, a dimmer, or a paddle. The on/off button 130is associated with a relay and controls the desired light levelassociated with a load (not shown) that is electrically coupled to thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100. When the on/off button 130 ispressed and released when the load is off, the on/off button 130 turnson the associated load. Conversely, when the on/off button 130 ispressed and released when the load is on, the on/off button 130 turnsoff the associated load. Additionally, according to some exemplaryembodiments, the manual controller 195 includes a recess 131. The recess131 has a curved-shape, wherein the deepest portion of the recess 131 ispositioned along a portion of a centerline axis 201 of the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100. However, the recess 131 is capable of beingformed in other shapes, such as a step recess, in other exemplaryembodiments. Additionally, according to some exemplary embodiments, themanual controller 195 is operable to change operating modes of thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100, which is further described indetail below in conjunction with FIG. 5.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4is an exploded view of a setting controller 350 of the in-wall occupancysensor switch 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the manual controller 195is removable to allow the end-user access to the setting controller 350,which is disposed behind the manual controller 195. The settingcontroller 350 includes setting selectors, including a daylight sensorlevel adjuster 360 and an occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370.Although some exemplary embodiments include both the daylight sensorlevel adjuster 360 and the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370,other exemplary embodiments include either or none of the daylightsensor level adjuster 360 and the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster370. Additionally, some exemplary embodiments include other settingselectors without departing from the scope and spirit of the exemplaryembodiment. Moreover, some exemplary embodiments do not include anysetting controllers 350.

Although the daylight sensor level adjuster 360 and the occupancy sensortime delay adjuster 370 are rotating knobs, the daylight sensor leveladjuster 360 and the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 can haveanother shape or form, such as a sliding switch or a push button withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.According to the exemplary embodiment, the daylight sensor leveladjuster 360 and the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 areadjusted by rotating, either clockwise or counter-clockwise, as thesituation requires. Further, in this exemplary embodiment, the daylightsensor level adjuster 360 includes a receptacle 462, which is capable ofreceiving a Philips-head or other known type of screwdriver, therebyfacilitating the adjustment of the daylight sensor level adjuster 360.Similarly, the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 includes areceptacle 472, which is capable of receiving a Philips-head or otherknown type of screwdriver, thereby facilitating the adjustment of theoccupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370.

The exemplary daylight sensor level adjuster 360 controls thesensitivity of a daylighting feature, which is an optional feature, andis indicated by a moon picture setting 464 and a sun picture setting 466at each end of the rotational range. The factory default setting has thedaylight sensor level adjuster 360 set in a fully clockwise position atthe sun picture setting 466. This factory default setting permits theoccupancy detection sensor 110 to turn on the lights of an associatedload regardless of the ambient light level in the monitored area. Whenthe daylight sensor level adjuster 360 is rotated counter-clockwise, thedaylighting feature activates and prevents lights of an associated loadfrom turning on when the monitored area has adequate ambient lightregardless of whether motion is detected in the monitored area. Theamount of ambient light required to adequately illuminate the monitoredarea is set by the daylight sensor level adjuster 360. If there isenough ambient light in the monitored area regardless of occupancy andthe daylight feature is activated, the daylight feature holds the lightsoff for an associated load. If there is not enough ambient light in themonitored area and the daylight feature is activated, the daylightfeature allows the lights of the associated load to turn on whenoccupied. In some exemplary embodiments, the daylight feature maintainsthe lights of the associated load off even if someone attempts tomanually turn on those lights using the manual controller 195 whilethere is sufficient ambient light available.

In one exemplary embodiment, the adjustment for the daylight sensorlevel adjuster 360 is infinite in between the moon position setting 464and the sun position setting 466 and is used to control amicrocontroller's 610 (FIG. 6) interpretation of the signal received.Turning the daylight sensor level adjuster 360 towards the moon positionsetting 464 reduces the amount of ambient light required before turningon the light sources of the associated load. Conversely, turning thedaylight sensor level adjuster 360 towards the sun position setting 466increases the amount of ambient light required before turning on thelight sources of the associated load. The functions for the sun positionsetting 466 and the moon position setting 464 can be reversed inalternative exemplary embodiments.

The exemplary occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 controls the timedelay for the lights of an associated load to remain on after motion isno longer detected within the monitored area. The exemplary occupancysensor time delay adjuster 370 is indicated by a “TEST” setting 474 anda “30” setting 478 at each end of the rotational range. Within therotational range, a “5” setting 475 is indicated adjacent to the “TEST”setting 474 and a “15” setting 477 is indicated between the “5” setting475 and the “30” setting 478. The “TEST” setting 474 represents a fivesecond time delay. The “5” setting 475 represents a five minute timedelay. The “15” setting 477 represents a fifteen minute time delay. The“30” setting 478 represents a thirty minute time delay and is also afactory default time delay setting. Although exemplary time delays andfactory default time delay settings have been provided, the time delaysand factory time delay settings can be varied to longer or shorter timedelay settings without departing from the scope and spirit of theexemplary embodiments. In one exemplary embodiment, the adjustment forthe occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 is infinite in between the“TEST” setting 474 and the “30” setting 478 and is used to control themicrocontroller's 610 (FIG. 6) interpretation of the signal received.The time delay setting is reduced when turning the occupancy sensor timedelay adjuster 370 counter-clockwise towards the “TEST” setting 474.Conversely, the time delay setting is increased when turning theoccupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 clockwise towards the “30”setting 478.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of operating mode selections 500 forthe in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment. Referring to FIG. 5, the operating mode selections 500include an occupancy operating mode 510, an occupancy override operatingmode 515, a vacancy operating mode 520, and a night light operating mode530. Although four different operating modes 510, 515, 520, and 530 areillustrated, the number of operating modes is capable of being increasedor decreased without departing from the scope and spirit of theexemplary embodiment. Each of these operating modes 510, 515, 520, and530 are selectable by manipulating one or more accessible userinterfaces, such as the night light 120 and/or the manual controller195. According to the description provided with respect to FIG. 5, themanual controller 195 is the on/off button 130. As previously mentioned,these accessible user interfaces are accessible to the end-user withouthaving to disassemble any portion of the switch 100. According to someexemplary embodiments, the accessible user interfaces 120 and 195 arepressed in, held in, and released to effectuate a change in operatingmodes. According to other exemplary embodiments, the accessible userinterfaces 120 and 195 are pressed in and released one or more times ina predetermined combination of presses to effectuate a change inoperating modes. This allows the end-user to change operating modes ofthe switch 100, without the changes being accidental. In some exemplaryembodiments, the load status/motion indicator 114 flashes to indicate anelapsed time that the accessible user interface 120 and 195 has beenpressed in so that the end-user releases the accessible user interface120 and 195 to effectuate a change in operating modes.

The occupancy operating mode 510 operates with the occupancy detectionsensor 110 being operational, either with the daylight feature beingactivated or deactivated. In this occupancy operating mode 510, with thedaylight feature being deactivated, the lights of the associated loadturn on when the occupancy detection sensor 110 in combination with themicrocontroller 610 (FIG. 6) detect motion in the monitored area andturn off when the occupancy detection sensor 110 in combination with themicrocontroller 610 (FIG. 6) no longer detect motion in the monitoredarea after a pre-set time delay. This pre-set time delay is setaccording to the occupancy sensor time delay adjuster 370 and is betweenfive seconds to thirty minutes. However, in alternative exemplaryembodiments, the pre-set time delay is variable from about zero secondsto about one hour. In certain exemplary embodiments, the lights of theassociated load also are capable of turning on and off by the end-usermanually by pressing and releasing the on/off button 130.

The occupancy override operating mode 515 operates with the occupancydetection sensor 110 not being operational. Hence, the occupancyoverride operating mode 515 is also referred to a manual operating mode.In this occupancy override operating mode 515, the lights of theassociated load turn on or off when the end-user presses and releasesthe on/off button 130. For example, if the lights are on, the lightsturn off when the end-user presses and releases the on/off button 130.In another example, if the lights are off, the lights turn on when theend-user presses and releases the on/off button 130.

The vacancy operating mode 520 operates with the occupancy detectionsensor 110 being operational. However, signals from the occupancydetection sensor 110 are utilized for only turning off the lights of theassociated load when occupancy is no longer detected. Signals from theoccupancy detection sensor 110 are not used to turn on the lights of theassociated load. In this vacancy operating mode 520, the lights of theassociated load turn on when the end-user presses and releases theon/off button 130 and turn off when the occupancy detection sensor 110in combination with the microcontroller 610 (FIG. 6) no longer detectmotion in the monitored area after a pre-set time delay, which has beenpreviously discussed. In certain exemplary embodiments, the lights ofthe associated load also are capable of turning off by the end-usermanually by pressing and releasing the on/off button 130.

The on/off button 130 is operable for the end-user to select anoperating mode between the occupancy operating mode 510, the occupancyoverride operating mode 515, and the vacancy operating mode 520. In oneexemplary embodiment, the on/off button 130 is pressed for five secondsand then released to toggle and/or select the operating mode between theoccupancy operating mode 510 and the vacancy operating mode 520. Forexample, if the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is operating inoccupancy operating mode 510, the end-user presses and holds the on/offbutton 130 for five seconds and then releases the on/off button 130 tochange the operating mode to vacancy operating mode 520. Conversely, ifthe in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is operating in vacancyoperating mode 520, the end-user presses and holds the on/off button 130for five seconds and then releases the on/off button 130 to change theoperating mode to occupancy operating mode 510. Although the on/offbutton 130 is described as having to be pressed in for five seconds totoggle between the occupancy operating mode 510 and the vacancyoperating mode 520, the time that the on/off button 130 is to be pressedin is more or less in alternative exemplary embodiments. Additionally,in certain exemplary embodiments, the load status/motion indicator 114flashes to indicate an elapsed time, such as five seconds, that theon/off button 130 has been pressed in. This flashing of the loadstatus/motion indicator 114 informs the end-user as to when to releasethe on/off button 130. According to other exemplary embodiments, theon/off button 130 and/or the night light button 120 are pressed in andreleased one or more times in a predetermined combination of presses toeffectuate a change in operating modes.

The occupancy override operating mode 515 is activated when the end-userpresses and holds the on/off button 130 for ten seconds and thenreleases the on/off button 130. In certain exemplary embodiments, theload status/motion indicator 114 flashes to indicate an elapsed time,such as at every five second interval, that the on/off button 130 hasbeen pressed in. This flashing of the load status/motion indicator 114informs the end-user as to when to release the on/off button 130.Although the on/off button 130 is described as having to be pressed infor ten seconds to activate the occupancy override operating mode 515,the time that the on/off button 130 is to be pressed in is more or lessin alternative exemplary embodiments. According to other exemplaryembodiments, the on/off button 130 and/or the night light button 120 arepressed in and released one or more times in a predetermined combinationof presses to effectuate a change in operating modes.

The night light operating mode 530 is another mode that the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100 is capable of operating. Operation of thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 while in the night light operatingmode 530 is dependent upon the status of the night light 120. In thenight light operating mode 530, if the night light 120 is on, thein-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 operates as if it were in thevacancy operating mode 520. Thus, the occupancy detection sensor 110 incombination with the microcontroller 610 (FIG. 6) does not turn on thelights of the associated load when motion is detected. However, thelights of the associated load is turned on manually using the on/offbutton 130, if the end-user desires depending upon the situation.Conversely, in the night light operating mode 530, if the night light120 is off, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 operates as if itwere in the occupancy operating mode 510. Hence, the occupancy detectionsensor 110 in combination with the microcontroller 610 (FIG. 6) turns onthe lights of the associated load when motion is detected in themonitored area and turns off the lights of the associated load whenmotion is not detected after a pre-set time delay. This night lightoperating mode 530 is useful in certain situations. For example, ifchildren are sleeping in their bedrooms at night with the light from theassociated load being off and the night light 120 being on, a parent isable to enter the room to monitor the children without having the lightsof the associated load turn on. Therefore, the children are notdisturbed from the brighter lights of the associated load because thoselights do not turn on due to motion in the monitored area. The nightlight 120 provides sufficient lighting for the parent to visibly monitorthe children.

The night light operating mode 530 is activated when the end-userpresses and holds the night light button 120 for five seconds and thenreleases the night light button 120. In certain exemplary embodiments,the load status/motion indicator 114 flashes to indicate an elapsedtime, such as five seconds, that the night light button 120 has beenpressed in. This flashing of the load status/motion indicator 114informs the end-user as to when to release the night light button 120.Although the night light button 120 is described as having to be pressedin for five seconds to activate the night light operating mode 530, thetime that the night light button 120 is to be pressed in is more or lessin alternative exemplary embodiments. To exit the night light operatingmode 530, the end-user chooses another operating mode. For example, theend-user presses and holds the on/off button 130 for five seconds andthen releases the on/off button 130 to change the operating mode to theoccupancy operating mode 510. According to other exemplary embodiments,the on/off button 130 and/or the night light button 120 are pressed inand released one or more times in a predetermined combination of pressesto effectuate a change in operating modes.

Thus, according to some exemplary embodiments, the several operatingmodes for the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 is changeable usingaccessible user interfaces located on the exterior surface of the faceplate 107, such as the manual controller 195, or the on/off button 130,and the night light 120. Thus, there is no need to disassemble anyportion of the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 to change operatingmodes. In some exemplary embodiments, only the night light 130 is usedto change operating modes. In other exemplary embodiments, only theon/off button 130, or manual controller 195, is used to change operatingmodes. Although the night light 120 and the on/off button 130 have beendescribed as accessible user interfaces located on the exterior surfaceof the face plate 107 for changing operating modes, other devices, suchas other push buttons, rotatable knobs, or sliders, can be located onthe front plate 107 and used for changing operating modes withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an in-wall occupancy sensorcontrol system 600 using the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 ofFIGS. 1-5 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Referring to FIG. 6, the in-wall occupancy sensor controlsystem 600 includes the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 and anassociated load 680. However, in alternate exemplary embodiments, thenumber of loads electrically coupled to the in-wall occupancy sensorswitch 100 can be greater without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe exemplary embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-6, the in-wall occupancysensor switch 100 includes a microcontroller 610, a daylight detectionsensor 620, an occupancy detection sensor 110, a manual controller 195,a settings controller 350, a night light 120, and a load status/motionindicator 114. In other exemplary embodiments, at least one of thedaylight detection sensor 620, the settings controller 350, and the loadstatus/motion indicator 114 is optional.

The microcontroller 610 receives information from one or more of thedaylight detection sensor 620, the occupancy detection sensor 110, themanual controller 195, the settings controller 350, and the night light120. The microcontroller 610 processes the information received andtransmits one or more signals to the load 680, the night light 120, andthe load status/motion indicator 114 pursuant to the descriptionspreviously provided. The occupancy detection sensor 110, the manualcontroller 195, the settings controller 350, the night light 120, theload 680, and the load status/motion indicator 114 operate according tothe disclosure previously described.

The daylight detection sensor 620 is positioned within the in-walloccupancy sensor switch 100 according to one exemplary embodiment;however, alternative exemplary embodiments have the daylight detectionsensor 620 positioned anywhere within the monitored area withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment. Thedaylight detection sensor 620 measures the amount of ambient lightpresent within the monitored area and sends the information to themicrocontroller 610, either via a hardwire communication or via awireless communication, for processing. Depending upon the settings ofthe settings controller 350, the microcontroller 610 turns off the load680 or can reduce the energy being supplied to the load 680 based uponthe amount of ambient light present within the monitored area regardlessof the occupancy in the monitored area. This feature allows for reducingenergy consumption. For example, if the monitored area is occupied andthe amount of ambient light meets or exceeds a desired set threshold,the microcontroller 610 reduces the energy sent to the load 680.

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch700 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Referring to FIG. 7, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 700is a dual load switch and includes the upper coupling band 190, thelower coupling band 192, the body (not shown), and a face plate 707. Theface plate 707 includes the occupancy detection sensor 110, the nightlight 120, and a manual controller 795. The face plate 707 is similar tothe face plate 107 (FIG. 1) of the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100(FIG. 1) except that manual controller 795 is different than manualcontroller 195 (FIG. 1). Manual controller 795 is similar to manualcontroller 195 (FIG. 1) except that manual controller 795 controls twoloads (not shown) and includes a first on/off button 730 and a secondon/off button 732, instead of single on/off button 130 (FIG. 1). Thefirst on/off button 730 is positioned adjacent the second on/off button732. The first on/off button 730 controls a first load, while the secondon/off button 732 controls a second load. A recess 731 is formed withinthe manual controller 795 and extends across both the first on/offbutton 730 and the second on/off button 732. Recess 731 is similar torecess 131 (FIG. 1). In other exemplary embodiments, a recess isencompassed within each on/off button 730 and 732 or there are norecesses formed in either or at least one of the on/off buttons 730 and732. Although this exemplary embodiment includes the manual controller795 having a first on/off button 730 and a second on/off button 732, themanual controller 795 can have a greater number of on/off buttonswithout departing from the scope and spirit of the exemplary embodiment.In some exemplary embodiments, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 700includes the load status/motion indicator 114, which has been previouslydescribed. According to this exemplary embodiment, the operating modesfor the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 700 is the same as the operatingmodes for the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100 (FIG. 1) and areselected in similar manners. However, the night light 120 and the firston/off button 732, similar to on/off button 130 (FIG. 1), is used tochange operating modes. In certain alternative exemplary embodiments,the operating modes are changed using one or more of the night light120, the first on/off button 730, and the second on/off button 732.

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of an in-wall occupancy sensor switch800 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Referring to FIG. 8, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 800is a dimmer switch and includes the upper coupling band 190, the lowercoupling band 192, the body (not shown), and a face plate 807. The faceplate 807 includes the occupancy detection sensor 110, the night light120, the manual controller 195, a dimmer switch 850, and a dimmer levelindicator 860. The face plate 807 is similar to faceplate 107 (FIG. 1)except that the faceplate 807 includes the dimmer switch 850 and thedimmer indicator 860. Incorporating dimmer switches into an electricalwiring device is known to people having ordinary skill in the art. Thedimmer level indicator 860 informs the end-user as to what level thedimmer switch 850 is operating at. Incorporating these dimmer levelindicators 860 also are known to people having ordinary skill in theart. In some exemplary embodiments, the in-wall occupancy sensor switch800 includes the load status/motion indicator 114, which has beenpreviously described. According to this exemplary embodiment, theoperating modes for the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 800 is the sameas the operating modes for the in-wall occupancy sensor switch 100(FIG. 1) and are selected in similar manners.

Although each exemplary embodiment has been described in detail, it isto be construed that any features and modifications that are applicableto one embodiment are also applicable to the other embodiments.Furthermore, although the invention has been described with reference tospecific embodiments, these descriptions are not meant to be construedin a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments,as well as alternative embodiments of the invention will become apparentto persons of ordinary skill in the art upon reference to thedescription of the exemplary embodiments. It should be appreciated bythose of ordinary skill in the art that the conception and the specificembodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifyingor designing other structures or methods for carrying out the samepurposes of the invention. It should also be realized by those ofordinary skill in the art that such equivalent constructions do notdepart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in theappended claims. It is therefore, contemplated that the claims willcover any such modifications or embodiments that fall within the scopeof the invention.

1. An electrical wiring device, comprising: a microcontrollercommunicably coupled to at least one load, an occupancy detection sensorcommunicably coupled to the microcontroller, the occupancy detectionsensor sending one or more signals to the microcontroller to allow themicrocontroller to determine occupancy within a monitored area; and atleast one accessible user interface communicably coupled to themicrocontroller, wherein the electrical wiring device is operable in aplurality of operating modes, wherein the accessible user interface isaccessible to an end-user without any portion of the device beingdisassembled, and wherein the operating modes are selected bymanipulating the accessible user interface.
 2. The electrical wiringdevice of claim 1, wherein the electrical wiring device is operable inan occupancy operating mode, wherein the microcontroller turns on one ormore loads when occupancy within the monitored area is detected andturns off one or more loads when occupancy within the monitored area isno longer detected.
 3. The electrical wiring device of claim 1, whereinthe electrical wiring device is operable in an occupancy overrideoperating mode, wherein the microcontroller turns on or off one or moreloads based only upon operation of the accessible user interface.
 4. Theelectrical wiring device of claim 1, wherein the electrical wiringdevice is operable in a vacancy operating mode, wherein themicrocontroller turns on one or more loads only when the accessible userinterface is operated, and wherein the microcontroller turns off one ormore loads when occupancy within the monitored area is no longerdetected.
 5. The electrical wiring device of claim 1, wherein theaccessible user interface comprises a manual controller.
 6. Theelectrical wiring device of claim 5, wherein the accessible userinterface further comprises a night light communicably coupled to themicrocontroller, the night light comprising: one or more light sourcesfor emitting light; and a night light lens disposed over the lightsources, wherein the night light lens allows the light to be emittedtherethrough, and wherein the night light lens is capable of beingpressed in.
 7. The electrical wiring device of claim 6, wherein theintensity of the light emitted from the night light is variable.
 8. Theelectrical wiring device of claim 6, wherein the electrical wiringdevice is operable in a night light operating mode, wherein operation ofthe electrical wiring device in the night light operating mode isdependent upon the status of the night light.
 9. The electrical wiringdevice of claim 8, wherein the microcontroller turns on one or moreloads only when the manual controller is operated when the electricalwiring device is operating in the night light operating mode with thenight light on.
 10. The electrical wiring device of claim 8, wherein themicrocontroller turns on one or more loads when occupancy within themonitored area is detected and turns off one or more loads whenoccupancy within the monitored area is no longer detected when theelectrical wiring device is operating in the night light operating modewith the night light off.
 11. The electrical wiring device of claim 8,wherein the end-user selects the night light operating mode by pressingin and holding in the night light lens for a predefined period of time.12. The electrical wiring device of claim 1, further comprising anindicator communicably coupled to the microcontroller, the indicatorproviding information to the end-user as to when to stop manipulatingone or more of the accessible user interfaces, thereby resulting in achange in the operating mode of the electrical wiring device.
 13. Theelectrical wiring device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of operatingmodes comprises an occupancy operating mode, an occupancy overrideoperating mode, and a vacancy mode, wherein the user interface comprisesa manual controller, the manual controller being pressed in, held in,and released after a predefined time period to select the operatingmode.
 14. The electrical wiring device of claim 13, wherein thepredefined time period is the same for selecting operation of the devicebetween at least two operating modes.
 15. The electrical wiring deviceof claim 13, wherein the predefined time period is different forselecting operation of the device between at least two operating modes.16. An electrical wiring device, comprising: a microcontrollercommunicably coupled to at least one load, an occupancy detection sensorcommunicably coupled to the microcontroller, the occupancy detectionsensor sending one or more signals to the microcontroller to allow themicrocontroller to determine occupancy within a monitored area; a nightlight communicably coupled to the microcontroller, the night lightcomprising: one or more light sources for emitting light; and a nightlight lens disposed over the light sources, wherein the night light lensallows the light to be emitted therethrough; and at least one manualcontroller communicably coupled to the microcontroller, wherein theelectrical wiring device is operable in one or more operating modes,wherein the operating mode comprises a night light operating mode,wherein operation of the electrical wiring device in the night lightoperating mode is dependent upon the status of the night light.
 17. Theelectrical wiring device of claim 16, wherein the microcontroller turnson one or more loads only when the manual controller is operated whenthe electrical wiring device is operating in the night light operatingmode with the night light on.
 18. The electrical wiring device of claim16, wherein the microcontroller turns on one or more loads whenoccupancy within the monitored area is detected and turns off one ormore loads when occupancy within the monitored area is no longerdetected when the electrical wiring device is operating in the nightlight operating mode with the night light off.
 19. The electrical wiringdevice of claim 16, wherein an end-user selects the night lightoperating mode by pressing and holding the night light lens for apredefined period of time.
 20. The electrical wiring device of claim 16,wherein the operating modes further comprise one or more of an occupancyoperating mode, an occupancy override operating mode, and a vacancymode.
 21. The electrical wiring device of claim 16, wherein at least oneof the night light and the manual controller is manipulated to selectthe operating mode of the device.
 22. The electrical wiring device ofclaim 21, further comprising an indicator communicably coupled to themicrocontroller, the indicator providing information to an end-user asto when to stop manipulating at least one of the night light and themanual controller, thereby resulting in a change in the operating modeof the electrical wiring device.
 23. A lighting control system,comprising: at least one load positioned within an area; and a lightingcontrol device electrically coupled to at least one load, wherein thelighting control device, comprises: a microcontroller communicablycoupled to at least one load, an occupancy detection sensor communicablycoupled to the microcontroller, the occupancy detection sensor sendingone or more signals to the microcontroller to allow the microcontrollerto determine occupancy within a monitored area; and at least oneaccessible user interface communicably coupled to the microcontroller,wherein the electrical wiring device is operable in a plurality ofoperating modes, wherein the accessible user interface is accessible toan end-user without any portion of the device being disassembled, andwherein the operating modes are selected by manipulating the accessibleuser interface.
 24. The lighting control system of claim 23, wherein theaccessible user interface comprises a manual controller.
 25. Thelighting control system of claim 24, wherein the accessible userinterface comprises a night light communicably coupled to themicrocontroller, the night light comprising: one or more LEDs foremitting light; and a night light lens disposed over the LEDs, whereinthe night light lens allows the light to be emitted therethrough, andwherein the night light lens is capable of being pressed in.
 26. Thelighting control system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of operatingmodes comprises a night light mode, wherein operation of the electricalwiring device in the night light operating mode is dependent upon thestatus of the night light.
 27. The lighting control system of claim 26,wherein the microcontroller turns on one or more loads only when themanual controller is operated when the electrical wiring device isoperating in the night light operating mode with the night light on. 28.The lighting control system of claim 26, wherein the microcontrollerturns on one or more loads when occupancy within the monitored area isdetected and turns off one or more loads when occupancy within themonitored area is no longer detected when the electrical wiring deviceis operating in the night light operating mode with the night light off.29. A method for selecting an operating mode for an electrical wiringdevice, comprising: providing an electrical wiring device capable ofoperating in a plurality of operating modes, the device comprising: amicrocontroller communicably coupled to at least one load, an occupancydetection sensor communicably coupled to the microcontroller, theoccupancy detection sensor sending one or more signals to themicrocontroller to allow the microcontroller to determine occupancywithin a monitored area; and at least one accessible user interfacecommunicably coupled to the microcontroller; and pressing in and holdingin the accessible user interface for a predetermined period of time,thereby effecting a change in an operating mode of the device, whereinthe accessible user interface is accessible to an end-user without anyportion of the device being disassembled.
 30. The method of claim 29,wherein the plurality of operating modes comprises a night light mode.31. The method of claim 30, wherein the electrical wiring device furthercomprises an indicator communicably coupled to the microcontroller, theindicator providing information to an end-user as to when to stoppressing in and holding in one or more of the accessible userinterfaces, thereby resulting in a change in the operating mode of theelectrical wiring device.
 32. A method for selecting an operating modefor an electrical wiring device, comprising: providing an electricalwiring device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes,the device comprising: a microcontroller communicably coupled to atleast one load, an occupancy detection sensor communicably coupled tothe microcontroller, the occupancy detection sensor sending one or moresignals to the microcontroller to allow the microcontroller to determineoccupancy within a monitored area; and at least one accessible userinterface communicably coupled to the microcontroller; and pressing inand releasing the accessible user interface one or more times in apredetermined combination of presses, thereby effecting a change in anoperating mode of the device, wherein the accessible user interface isaccessible to an end-user without any portion of the device beingdisassembled.
 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the plurality ofoperating modes comprises a night light mode.
 34. The method of claim32, wherein the accessible user interface comprises at least one of anight light and a manual controller.